The Florida State Fair is here.  From today through Monday, February 20, the Florida State Fairgrounds will turn into a prime destination for Tampa residents and visitors of all ages seeking tons of classic fair rides, food, games, live entertainment and more throughout the fair's 12-day run.

But, taking part in all the fair has to offer can sometimes be a costly endeavor.  Getting a taste of some of that terrible for you, but delicious fair food, discovering your inner dare devil on all the crazy rides, playing all those skill games; it can add up.  Luckily there are a number of great deals and discounts out there to make your trip to the Florida State Fair just a little less pricey.

Tonight is opening night and the fair is offering two great deals. The first is College Night where all college students with valid student I.D. get FREE entry into the fair.  The fair is also offering their "5 after 5" deal which means $5 adult admission after 5 p.m.  "5 for 5" will also occur on the nights of February 13, 14, 15 and 16.

The Florida State Fair is also offering free admission to Hillsborough County K-12 students who have no school tomorrow, February 10 in celebration of the fair.  The fair will offer free admission for Pasco, Polk and Manatee students on Monday, February 20.

On February 20, the Florida State Fair will also host National Salute to Veterans day where everyone, not just vets, can get into the fair for free after 4 p.m.

If you're a student member of 4H or FFA, you can get free fair admission with member I.D. or club jacket on both Saturdays, February 11 and 18.

The Florida State Fair will also host Senior Days on February 14, 15, and 16 where seniors 55 and older can get discounted $6 tickets or $8 tickets at the gate.

For those looking to ride the rides on the cheap, the fair will offer Midway Power Hour on Saturday 11 and 18 from 10 to 11 a.m where most of the midway rides will cost only one ticket; a significant drop from the typical 4-5 ticket cost.

Finally, the Florida State Fair will host Pepsi Armband Days on Friday, February 10 and Monday, February 20.  On these days, fair patrons can pay $25 ($5 discount) for unlimited ride armbands when they present a Diet Mountain Dew can at the gate.

Hope this helps, Tampa.  See you at the fair!